Snead State Community College

BlackBoard System Requirements

an up to date Operating System (Windows XP)

Java version 1_5_0_05 (Can be downloaded below)

and a certified browser (like Internet Explorer 6 and Firefox 1.0.7 on Windows or Safari 1.2, 1.3.1 or 2.0.2 on the Mac).

Also, a broadband (fast access) connection is preferred, along with having a recent machine with enough RAM etc.

Importance of Java

BlackBoard Campus Edition 6 is a Java based program. Therefore, it is very important to have the correct version of Java installed on your computer. If you do not, the features and functions will not work properly. If you are experiencing problems like not being able to send or open e-mail, it is probably the version of Java on your computer that is causing the problems. Here are BlackBoard’s suggestions:

First, un-install all versions of java and try the one recommended by BlackBoard.

To uninstall previous versions: Go to Start, My Computer, Add or Remove Programs. Click on the Java Program and then click Remove.

Then click the link provided below to install the correct version.

http://www.snead.edu/java-1_5_0_05-windows.exe

Once you get to this site, you will choose "Save". Next, select "Desktop" as your destination and click "Save" again. When the program has downloaded, double click on the icon placed on your desktop, then click "Run". This will install the BlackBoard recommended version of java on your computer.

Also you may have to configure any security software such as anti-virus and firewall to allow access and have the BlackBoard site as a trusted site.

Finally, please be sure to disable all pop-up blockers while on BlackBoard. There can be more than one pop-up blocker on your system. They can be found in your anti-virus software, toolbar, and any downloaded items like Yahoo, Google, etc. search bars. Make sure to disable them all while in BlackBoard.

Camtasia Video System Requirements

Some BlackBoard courses contain recorded lecture videos or movies relevant to your class.  To view these videos, you need to make sure your system has a current version of Windows Media Player installed.  If you do not have Windows Media Player, it can be obtained here: 

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/download/AllDownloads.aspx

Technical Support

Snead State Community College provides technical support resources to ensure that our students have a successful online learning experience.

Answers to questions regarding

• online learning environment

• software, Web browsers, and operating systems

• computer hardware and Internet issues

Staff is available--by phone, e-mail, or real-time chat for the convenience of our busy adult learners.

If you have questions about any of these instructions or continue to have problems after following the directions above, please contact:

Jerri Gullion

e-mail: jgullion@snead.edu

Phone: (256) 840-4180

Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Real-time chat: Check the “Who’s Online” section of WebCT under “Snead State Community College”. This is located on your “My BlackBoard” page. Look for Jerri Gullion, Institution Administrator. If I am online, you can send me an instant message by putting a check beside my name and selecting “Send Chat Invitation” at the bottom of the page. If I don't answer immediately, please give me a few minutes to reply. I may be busy or on the phone.

Also, please be sure to check your “Campus Announcements” section of your “My WebCT” page frequently for important information.